Did you travel Virginia’s interstate highways this weekend and notice a green gecko staring back at you? The Geico insurance company, known for its gecko advertising pitchman, has sponsored the state’s 43 rest areas. Signs with the reptile’s face have been placed along the roadside near the stops guiding them to rest stops, noting them as safe places to use your cell phones.
The sponsorship will help defray some of the operating costs associated with the rest stops, and it is the first time state rest stops in Virginia have been sponsored. It also comes after the 2010 reopening of many of the rest stops which had been closed during the previous year to save $9 million.
“My administration has moved aggressively to find innovative solutions for maintaining and operating Virginia’s rest areas and welcome centers, which provide a safe place for travelers to rest and gather information about the many attractions and services Virginia has to offer,” said Virginia Gov. Robert F. McDonnell. “By partnering with the private sector, we are not only keeping our rest areas open, but we are making our roads safer by discouraging distracted driving.”
McDonnell announced in March 2011 that he wanted to secure sponsors for the rest stops.
“A three-year contract was awarded to CRH Catering Co., Inc. based in Connellsville, Pa., (with locations in Richmond and Norfolk) to develop and manage a new program to generate additional revenues that will help offset operating costs of the commonwealth’s rest areas and welcome centers, which total approximately $21 million annually. The contract requires CRH to pay VDOT approximately $2 million annually in revenue generated by the ongoing vending program and the new GEICO sponsorship,” a press release stated.
Recent Stories
Happy Friday, Manassas! Welcome to another City Council preview, this time for the Feb. 10 regular meeting. This week’s meeting will be held at the City Hall Council Chambers at…
A debate over financial transparency and fiscal responsibility erupted during the Prince William Board of County Supervisors’ meeting as members weighed the transfer of $31.6 million to Prince William County Schools (PWCS). The funds, representing the school division’s share of the Fiscal Year 2024 general revenue surplus, were allocated under the county’s long-standing revenue-sharing agreement.
While the measure ultimately passed, some supervisors raised concerns that the county’s revenue-sharing model does not adequately oversee how the school system spends taxpayer money.
Metro Nova Creative is adding a creative twist to fundraising in downtown Fredericksburg: Business owner Dan Craddock announced that his team will surprise a different non-profit organization each quarter with unique designs on t-shirts, stickers, and merchandise.
The “Souper Bowl” returns to Historic Downtown Manassas for First Friday on February 7, 2025, with a sold-out crowd ready to sample soups from top local restaurants. Attendees will explore downtown, tasting a diverse selection of soups—from classic Tomato Basil Bisque to bold Pork Belly Ramen and Cocoa Cloud Dessert Soup—served at various businesses. Participants will vote for their favorite, crowning one soup the ultimate winner. With new contenders and returning favorites, the event promises a flavorful journey. Missed out this year? Stay tuned for next year’s Souper Bowl and more exciting First Friday events in Manassas.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
